Beta hydroxybutyrate (BHB) is the first ketone body produced in a fasting state. It is commonly produced by the body during periods without much food (glucose) in order to provide an alternative energy fuel source. Although it is not technically a "ketone" (owing to the bonding structure), for the purposes of this post it is.

Although supplementation of beta hydroxybutyrate has been described as "jet fuel" and undesirable, modern iterations of exogenous ketones are making it easier for anyone to utilize these ketone bodies for optimal brain performance.

Diets that are low in carbohydrates and high in fatty acids can either prompt the body to produce ketone bodies, such as beta hydroxybutyrate, or allow people to consume them exogenously (outside the body) instead. These exogenous ketone supplements have grown in popularity along with the ketogenic diet and media attention from popular icons such as Tim Ferriss and Dave Asprey.

There are a host of benefits of beta hydroxybutyrate, but it is primarily known as a fuel source in the absence of glucose. Within 24 – 72 hours without food, the body no longer uses glucose as the main fuel support system, which is when ketones like beta hydroxybutyrate kick into production. Fasting as long as 382 days (with medical supervision) is possible purely because of ketone production.

Most of the evidence regarding beta hydroxybutyrate utilizes this exogenous ketone as a way to recovery from memory damage or impairment or as a neuroprotective agent.

In one 2004 study of memory-impaired adults, beta hydroxybutyrate successfully aided in improving memory recall. For Alzheimer's patients, using beta hydroxybutyrate is particularly helpful as a neuroprotective agent .

Many of the long-term and neuroprotective benefits of beta hydroxybutyrate are closely linked to reduced carbohydrate and glucose consumption as well. For those who are consuming both exogenous ketones and eating glucose, the benefits are known.

 The benefits of beta hydroxybutyrate are not only for people who are currently experiencing nutritional ketosis. Often it is possible for athletes to utilize ketone bodies as a fuel source to limit glycogen depletion.

 Beta Hydroxybutyrate Dosage
The standard dosage of beta hydroxybutyrate is 10 – 12 grams per serving. Dosage is important when using beta hydroxybutyrate. One potential side effect of beta hydroxybutyrate is overdosing and death at high ranges. The toxicity range in animals is quite high, but it is best to stay within the recommended range of beta hydroxybutyrate.

 It may also be useful for people using nutritional ketosis to incorporate blood glucose and ketone testing into their regimen